Eating disorders, such as anorexia, bulimia, and binge eating disorder are characterized by extreme emotions, attitudes, and behaviors surrounding weight and food. Eating disorders involve serious emotional and physical problems that can have life-threatening consequences for all genders.

Growth of a downy layer of hair called "lanugo" all over the body, including the face. This is the body’s effort in an effort to keep itself warm

Premature death

BULIMIA is characterized by a cycle of binge eating followed by purging. Bulimia includes eating large amounts of food in a short period of time (more than most people would eat in one meal), then getting rid of the food and calories through vomiting, laxative use, over-exercising, or other means.

People who have bulimia often do not appear underweight, but they do often exhibit other signs of an eating disorder. Recovery for bulimia is often most effective the earlier a person seeks treatment…so it is important that everyone is aware of the warning signs.

Purging can lead to dehydration and the loss of potassium and sodium. Electolyte imbalances can result, which in turn may lead to an irregular heart rate, heart failure, and even death

A gastric rupture may occur during periods of purging

Frequent and repeated vomiting may lead to inflammation and/or rupture of the esophagus

The frequent and repeated release of stomach acids through vomiting can result in tooth staining and tooth decay

Frequent use of laxatives can result in chronic irregular bowel movements and constipation

Peptic ulcers and pancreatitis

BINGE EATING DISORDER is characterized by periods of uncontrolled, impulsive or continuous eating beyond the point of feeling comfortably full. While there is no purging, there may be sporadic fasts or repetitive diets and often feelings of shame or self-hatred.

Symptoms:

Frequent episodes of eating large quantities of food in short periods of time

Feeling “out of control” over eating behavior

Feeling depressed, guilty, ashamed, or disgusted by the eating behaviors

Frequently eating when not hungry

Eating alone due to feelings of embarrassment or shame over the amount of food eaten

Potential Health Consequences:

Anxiety and/or depression

High blood pressure

High cholesterol

Heart disease due to elevated triglyceride levels

Secondary diabetes

Gallbladder disease

Musculoskeletal problems

OTHER EATING DISORDERS can include some combination of the signs and symptoms of anorexia, bulimia and/or binge eating. These behaviors are harmful and negatively impact daily life.

Disordered Eating

Disordered eating describes irregular patterns of eating and it occurs when an individual has an unhealthy relationship with food. These eating habits may eventually result in psychological and/or physical harm, yet do not meet the criteria of an eating disorder.

Examples of Disordered Eating:

Crash dieting, fasting, or living on tiny amounts of food in order to lose weight in a short period of time

All eating disorders require professional help. If you would like to speak to a counselor about your situation or need a referral for treatment, please contact the USI Counseling Center at 812-464-1867.